By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News
On November 15-16, the Tulalip Gathering Hall hosted the first of two annual Holiday Native Bazaars organized by tribal member Tammy Taylor. This year, the event featured over 60 tribal vendors showcasing handmade crafts and goods. Attendees explored an impressive selection of items, from traditional Native regalia such as cedar hats, baskets, and jewelry to handmade quilts, soaps, candles, and paintings. The bazaar offered smoked salmon, deer, elk, banana bread, cookies, and various popcorn flavors for food lovers.
Vendor Lorina Jones expressed her excitement about the event’s success. “This is our second year here. Our freeze-dried candy and earrings sold quite well.” When asked for her overall impression of the bazaar, Jones replied, “I think it went well—there were many vendors and lots of people left with great gifts. Everyone is together, laughing, having a good time. It’s just a fantastic opportunity for us to sell the crafts we love creating.”
Taylor highlighted the unique nature of the gifts available at the bazaar. “There are so many beautiful gifts here—things you can’t find anywhere else, made with love, care, and prayers. That’s the best part. People look forward to this event every year. Some vendors have told me how much they appreciate having this opportunity to sell their crafts and make money for things they need.”
Taylor emphasized the community spirit fostered by the bazaar. “This is about more than just selling; it’s about gathering and sharing. You see young people, some as young as 14 or 15, bringing their baked goods to sell. It’s heartwarming to watch. And then you have vendors like Mike Gobin, whose beautiful carved rattles were flying off the table, or The Golden Girls—tribal members Heather, Toni Jo, and Judy Gobin—laughing and weaving together. Watching them enjoy themselves is what this event is all about.”
She also praised the artistry on display, mentioning Lance Taylor’s cedar hats, Mike Dunn’s wooden coat racks, and many other unique items. “There’s just so much beautiful art here,” she said. “I encourage everyone to come out and support tribal member vendors. Everything is made with care and talent, whether someone has just a handful of items or several tables.”
Taylor thanked the Tulalip Tribes for providing the gathering hall and the Quil Ceda Village graphics team for creating the event’s banners each year. “They always do an amazing job,” she said. “This event wouldn’t be possible without their support and the dedication of everyone involved.”
Another Holiday Bazaar will be held on December 6 and 7 at the Gathering Hall. Tulalip tribal member vendors only, for questions reach out to Tammy Taylor at (425) 501-4141